how do ypu know if your skimmer is working like it should

[chefbigdav]

I have a new tank and it's been up and running for 2 months. I was wondering why i have skiming sludge on the inside tube from the base and not that much in the cup. All looks great with pmts fine,
but i guess my question is how do you know if your skimmer is doing what it should:
It's a down draft skimmer rated for 300 gl tank, and my take sise is 75 gl with 40 gl sump

[z_rivers]

If your skimmate if forming on the riser tube its because your skimming too dry. Restrict the flow some on the skimmer output so that that water level raises in the riser tube. It may take some fine adjustments to get the skimmate not too dry and not too wet

[chefbigdav]

Thanks that makes sinse. Can't wait to go to the house and ajust it. love this site

[afelder]

Also clean the scum that forms leaving it there is one of the main reasons that skimmers performance decreases.